Anesthesia

Local anesthesia—just the area that is being operated on is numbed, given as an injection and may also be given with a sedative

Transrectal prostate biopsy—local anesthesia

Description of the Procedure

Your doctor will use one of the following methods to do the biopsy:

Transrectal biopsy (most common method)—Your doctor will insert a small ultrasound device into the rectum. This device will produce sound waves to create an image of the prostate. These images will help guide placement of the needle. Your doctor will then insert the needle through the wall of your rectum and into the prostate gland.

Transurethral biopsy—Your doctor will insert a lighted flexible tube through the penis into the urethra. The urethra carries urine from the bladder. Your doctor will get the biopsy with a cutting loop that is passed through the flexible tube.

Perineal biopsy—Your doctor will make a small incision in the perineum. The perineum is the area between the scrotum and the rectum. The doctor will insert a small needle into the prostate gland to get the biopsy.

How Long Will It Take?

About 30 minutes

Will It Hurt?

You may have discomfort and soreness at the biopsy site. Pain and discomfort after the procedure can be managed with medications.

Postoperative Care

When you return home after the procedure, do the following to help ensure a smooth recovery:

Stay hydrated. Drink plenty of fluids for the next few days.

Avoid difficult physical activity the day and evening of the procedure.

Keep in mind that you may see blood in your urine, stool, or semen for several days.

Resume any medications that were stopped when you are advised to do so.

Ask your doctor about when it is safe to shower, bathe, or soak in water.

After the sample is taken, it will be sent to a pathologist. This doctor will analyze the sample for cancer. If cancer is present, your doctor will work with you to develop a treatment plan.

Call Your Doctor

It is important to monitor your recovery. Alert your doctor to any problems. If any of the following occur, call your doctor:

Inability to urinate

Blood in the urine more than 2-3 days post-biopsy

Signs of infection, including fever and chills

Pain that you cannot control with the medications you have been given

Pain, burning, urgency, or frequency of urination

Cough, shortness of breath, or chest pain

Rectal bleeding that lasts more than 2-3 days after the biopsy

If you think you have an emergency, call for medical help right away.

Revision Information

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.